Are you in the process of moving and looking for a safe place to store your belongings while you sort out the details? Or maybe you’re heading out for a trip and need a bit of extra space to store your seasonal wardrobe? Whatever the case may be, renting a storage unit can be a great solution, whatever your circumstances.
Storage containers are perfect for storing large items such as furniture and bikes, but did you know they can also be a handy way to keep your clothes and soft furnishings safe? By storing your clothes in a storage unit, you can rest easy knowing they are protected from the elements and can be easily accessed whenever you need them. Plus, if you choose self-storage with excellent security measures, you can be confident that your items are safe from theft.
But before you start packing up your clothes, it’s important to know how to store them correctly to keep them fresh, intact, and ready to wear again. So, we’ve put together some handy tips for storing your clothes long-term.
Potential risks when storing clothes long-term
Whether you’re keeping your clothes in a dedicated storage unit or up in the loft at home, there are a few common issues you may come up against. Let’s explore some potential risks — but don’t worry, our tips below will help keep these issues at bay.
- Mould and mildew: It can be tricky to control the temperature and moisture levels of your storage space, especially if it’s a loft or basement. Cold, damp conditions can lead to the spread of mould and mildew, which can be unpleasant and may damage your garments.
- A musty smell: Have you ever pulled out a forgotten jumper from the back of your wardrobe and noticed a musty smell? This is often linked to mildew, but it can also develop from a lack of airflow.
- Pests: From moths to mice, little critters can cause havoc with stored clothes, nibbling holes and causing damage. Fortunately, containers from Bluebox Storage, including our 10-ft storage containers and 20-ft storage units, are secure and pest-resistant.
- Dust: Without the right boxes and coverings, clothing can be prone to gathering dust and dirt.
- Creasing: When clothes are folded in the same way for a long time, they may end up with deep creases that can be frustrating to iron or steam out.
Top tips for storing clothes
So, how can you make sure your clothes stay clean, fresh, and protected?
Wash your clothes before storing them
It’s a good idea to wash your clothes before storing them to avoid any unwanted pests. Sometimes, residue from deodorant, perfume, or other cosmetics can cause discolouration over time. By removing these residues in the wash before packing your clothes away, you can minimise any potential damage.
Avoid plastic bags
Similarly, storing your clothes in plastic bags, like reusable shopping bags, can seem like a helpful and affordable solution. However, although plastic bags are cost-effective, they can trap moisture, leading to mould and mildew. They also don’t offer protection and can leave your clothes susceptible to rips and tears.
Consider using boxes
Organise your clothes easily by storing them in storage boxes. With a range of boxes available, you can find an option that suits your garments best, including investing in hanging garment storage boxes. These are ideal for coats, dresses, and other longer items and stop your items from becoming creased over time. For additional protection, keep special occasion clothes, such as suits and wedding dresses, in hanging garment bags.
Do’s and Don’ts For Storing Clothing
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Don’t overload your boxes
When storing your clothes in boxes, try to leave a bit of space at the top. Again, this creates some airflow to reduce creasing and minimise the risk of damage.
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Include silica gel packets
Small silica gel packets are ideal to include when storing clothes. These packs soak up excess moisture to reduce mildew. Add them to your clothing boxes or pop them in the pockets of your garments.
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Label your items
As you arrange your clothes for storage, think about creating an inventory. Adding labels to boxes will make it easier to find specific items when you unpack them. For a more comprehensive method, create a full inventory, listing the exact items in each box.
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Think about the storage placement
Are you storing winter clothes over the summer? Perhaps you’re storing baby clothes with the view of taking them out again when you have another child. When packing your clothes and arranging your storage boxes, think about which ones you’re likely to need access to most. These boxes can go at the front of your storage unit, so you can get to them easily.
Store your clothes safely with Bluebox Storage
If you’re looking for a secure space to store your seasonal clothes, we have an array of storage container sizes to suit your needs at convenient locations across the North East. With Bluebox Storage, you can enjoy 24/7 access to your belongings and have peace of mind knowing your storage unit comes with a complimentary padlock. What’s more, all of our locations feature CCTV monitoring.
Take a look at our self-storage prices and get in touch with the Bluebox Storage team to receive a personalised storage quote, and get started storing your clothing at one of our nine locations.
